A crafty young decorator, uses his vivid design sense to rejuvenate a New York City apartment.

Olsen’s client requested a colorful balance of comfort and chic. The only catch? She wanted to hang on to most of her old furniture. So the designer updated many of her high-quality pieces with eye-grabbing new upholstery, while also advising her to invest in this cushy sofa from British retailer Soane.

flower power “Flowers never fail to freshen up a room,” Olsen says. He suggests low, tight arrangements to enhance a tablescape, or tall, dramatic blooms to complement a focal point.

printed material “In general, every room can handle one animal print, one floral, and one geometric motif,” Olsen says. To prevent pattern overload, he suggests using solids for relief. “If every throw pillow is some variation on ikat,” he says, “we have a problem.”

bold move Don’t be afraid to incorporate ample color. Olsen suggests using a multihued textile or rug as a jumping-off point. “Borrow the shades found in that rug for other upholstered pieces and accessories in the room,” he advises.